The Island Batik April Challenge is to make a Soft Toy.
This challenge is generously sponsored by Pauline McArthur of Funky Friends Factory.
Since I had Island Batik (gecko is their logo) on my mind, I chose to make Gertie, the Gecko.
The instructions are well-written. Video guidance for newbie toy makers is available at the Funky Friends Factory blog.
 |
| The pattern |
I used bright yellow and bright blue from Island Batik Foundations.
Schmetz 90/14 needle worked well.
 |
| The Body |
 |
| The hind legs |
 |
| The Flat Gecko - Ready to Fill |
 |
| One Paw at a time |
 |
| Is she moulting? |
I used Polyfill to stuff the toy. It was tricky to fill the curvy tail. Made a quick run to the local sewing store to get yellow buttons. They are a bit larger than I wanted...but they will do.
As soon as I was done making the eyes, Gertie began exploring her new surroundings. From the cutting mat, she leapt on to the design wall and then on to the couch.
 |
The newborn Gertie
 | Climbing the design wall
|
|
 |
| On the Couch, with Paul |
Of course, Paul was taking a nap, his favorite quilt (
The Invisible Sun) close by. But he was happy to pet Gertie and she seemed to be happy on his belly. I totally get it. If I was a gecko, I would be very happy there :-)
 |
| Aah to be Paul's pet :-) |
But she did not stay there for too long. Last week, I had to attend a conference out of town. As I stepped out, I saw Gertie on the front path, dressed up in a snazzy yellow ribbon around her neck.
 |
| All dressed up??? |
What are you up to missy, I asked. She looked at me with her big googly eyes, imploring me to take her with me. When I ordered her to get back inside, she jumped on to the car's windshield.
 |
| Gertie is ready to travel |
I decided she needed an outing and so she came with me to the conference in Philadelphia. I stayed at the Marriott in downtown Philly. My room was on the 17th floor.
 |
| View - looking outside |
 |
| View - looking inside |
Gertie happily occupied the second bed in my room. But in the morning she was up bright and early. I found her on my keyboard - naughty as ever.
 |
| Well, good morning to you too! |
For now, Gertie is exhausted from her travels and is taking a nap. Should she try any new antics, you can read about them here.
I had a great time at the conference, meeting colleagues and learning about new developments in Passenger Rail. The carpet at the Marriott was so beautiful that I took several pictures.
 |
| Gorgeous Chandeliers |
 |
| Orange Peel? |
 |
| Quilty Inspiration |
 |
| Happy Me Selfie |
April is pink, said Angela. As soon as I returned, I dived into pinks.
 |
| Medium Pinks |
 |
| Light Pinks |
 |
| Dark Pinks |
I also completed a quilt. Unfortunately, I can show only so much. The pattern will be published in July 2022. But here is a sneak peek.
 |
| A new finish - sneak peek!!! |
What have you been up to? Did you go somewhere, make something or just acquired new stuff? Do share.
I will be sharing with all my favorite linky parties. See full list on the sidebar.